Summer 2019: A note from our General Editor, Johnny Hunt

I am so excited for the joy you will capture as you make your way through 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus. I have often taught that it’s not the truth we know, but the truth we obey that really makes the difference.  As we study together we will learn how to live out what we believe. What we really believe is displayed on a daily basis by the way we behave. Weekly we will be confronted with biblical doctrine, practical application, and how to flesh out the truth contained in sacred scriptures.

I have always been taught that the best way to spot something counterfeit is by being better acquainted with the truth. Paul constantly dealt with false teachers claiming that the church could be distrusted or that the truth could be diluted.

Paul, writing as a 1^st century Christian, was well aware the church of Jesus Christ is always only one generation away from extinction. We are indebted to him for his faithful encouragement as we embrace healthy doctrine from biblical truth.   Paul’s ministry of the word served the church well in staying its faithful missional course.

As we study these Epistles, it’s so encouraging to realize that we do not have to lead our churches by mere human speculation. God has given us concise, clear, and compelling truth for guiding His church. Whether it’s how to deal with sin within the church, qualities and characteristics of Christ-honoring leadership, or how to identify someone who is not ready for a place to lead, Paul speaks clearly and writes with in-depth helpfulness.

I have often heard it said that the greatest evidence of the resurrection is a changed life. Through each book we study, there’s a call to a life that is congruent with the Christian teaching of Paul the Apostle.  As others observe our Christ-like demeanor, the followers of Christ are encouraged and challenged while the unbelievers find little to criticize when our walk matches our talk.

Get ready for an informative walk through the sacred text. Whether you are studying God’s mission for the church, how to be a leader that’s displaying biblical traits, staying faithful to your calling, or making the right use of money, you will be encouraged in 1 Timothy.

As you move into 2 Timothy, be encouraged as you study Paul’s devotion and determination to see Timothy succeed. Learn how due diligence will lead to an enduring ministry.

Lastly, as you study one of my all-time favorite books, Titus, you will be introduced to marvelous principles of leadership. Titus is placed on the island of Crete with instructions to raise up leaders and what to teach them. In the midst of brave planting there seems to always be opposition to God’s cause. Titus gives an example of leadership through all challenges with a heart of integrity and honor.

Buckle up it’s going to be an exciting ride.

Johnny Hunt, longtime senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Woodstock, Georgia and past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, recently joined the North American Mission Board as senior vice president of evangelism and leadership. He has written numerous books, including Demolishing Strongholds.

 

To order the upcoming Summer Explore the Bible Study on 1, 2 Timothy and Titus, go to our new releases page here.